Write the conclusion from the findings
- Briefly remind the reader of the study purpose and scope.
- Answer the research questions in the same order, drawing only on reported findings.
- Explain what the findings mean for the specific setting or debate.
- State the limits on that interpretation, including design and access constraints.
- Close with the contribution the evidence can reasonably make.
A conclusion is more than a copy of the abstract or a list of tables. It synthesises the answers and makes clear how far they reach. Do not introduce a new statistic, reference, theme or result that the reader has not seen in the findings chapters.
Derive each recommendation
A useful recommendation identifies the finding behind it, who can act, what practical step to take, and what constraint or resource matters. If the study has a small or local scope, recommend a bounded next step rather than a nationwide policy change.
Government should improve education in Nigeria.
If the completed study finds that students in the selected department cannot reliably access the required lab during scheduled sessions, recommend that the department review booking capacity for the next semester and track unmet requests. Name this only if your evidence actually supports it.
- Name the responsible stakeholder, not “all stakeholders”.
- Use a verb that describes a feasible action.
- Tie the action to a stated finding or limitation.
- Avoid claiming cost, impact or effectiveness you did not assess.
- Separate practical recommendations from suggestions for future research.
Suggestions for further study
Future-study suggestions should grow from a specific limitation or unanswered question. Explain why a different population, longer period, better measure, comparison group or alternative method would add knowledge. Do not use “more research should be done” as a stand-alone recommendation.
Common closing errors
- Restating the introduction without answering the questions.
- Making recommendations that are absent from, or contradict, the findings.
- Turning a local result into a universal claim.
- Adding new evidence or citations in the conclusion.
- Writing a recommendation that has no owner, action or realistic next step.
Final chapter checklist
- Does each conclusion map to an objective or question?
- Can every conclusion be traced to a reported finding?
- Are recommendations assigned to people or organisations able to act?
- Are further-study suggestions connected to a real limitation or open question?
- Have you stated what the project cannot conclude?
Sources and further reading
These university writing resources inform the general advice here. They do not replace your department's handbook or supervisor's guidance.